Martina Navratilova is known around the world for the epic battles she waged on tennis courts. She won 18 Grand Slam singles titles, a record 31 Grand Slam women's doubles titles and 10 Grand Slam mixed doubles titles. She advanced to the Wimbledon singles final 12 times, including nine consecutive years from 1982-1990.
But the toughest opponent she has ever faced has been off the court.
Navratilova had been busy and neglected to get her regular mammograms for the past few years. During January of this year, she made a routine doctor's appointment and that's when cancer was spotted. Navratilova underwent a lumpectomy in March - and completed six weeks of radiation in June.
The tennis great allowed a CNN camera team to be alongside her as she tried to balance her treatments with her demanding daily routine at the French Open. She underwent her treatments in the morning, commentated for the Tennis Channel during the day, and spent her evenings playing Legends tennis.
CNN has been granted rare access to one of the most recognized and successful female athletes in the world. Navratilova is sharing her story with the world, so she can inspire women to get their mammograms and take a more active role in their personal health.
CNN will air Martina: My Toughest Opponent on Saturday, Aug 7, at 5:30p in London, 6:30p CET. Viewers will get to see a side of Martina they've never seen before. They'll see her travelling to her treatments while attempting to keep up her busy schedule. You will meet her doctor, see where she's getting treated and meet the group of friends who are determined to see her through this chapter in her life. CNN
